Rock is one particular genre that, since its inception, has had its hand in influencing just about every other genre, sound, and era in the history of modern music. It is understandable then that, from rock, many a new and wonderful sub-sound has been founded. Good ol’ rock-n-roll was the instigator, and punk rock, progressive rock, pop rock, folk rock, metal, emocore, grunge, Southern rock, and many, many others were the end results. The sub-genres are still collectively growing into this decade, too, showing just how influential the rock is, not just as a term or even as a genre, but as a way of living. While some artists are eager to expand upon the sound by experimentation, others are just as eager to remain as absolutely true to their roots as they humanly can.
It’s not like either of those two types of people are in the wrong for doing what they do. Every once in a while, though, it is just especially refreshing to come across a band that, above all else, just wants to throw up the classic sign of the horns in rebellion against the predominant pop sound and really teach the world all over again what rock and roll is really about. Right in this very moment, Dead City Lights is exactly that band. Between their heavy instrumental talent and cutting-edge vocals, their is no doubt about it when listening to the Phoenix, Arizona-based band’s debut EP that “Come Alive” is all rock with no filler.
That isn’t to say that “Come Alive” produces a sound that has all been heard before, though. In truth, their sound is exciting and new because of how deeply sewn into classic roots it is. When listening to this extended play, you can feel the pure enthusiasm of the men of Dead City Lights — Zach Erfort, Nick Rossi, and Justin Grubb — as they rock hard and unapologetically across five stellar tracks. In that enthusiasm, they are genuine, and in that genuineness, they are a force to be reckoned with in an industry filled with proclaimed sell-outs and fakes. In all actuality, very rarely in this era does one come across a band filled to the brim with tried and true rockers, but these three guys fit the bill pretty darn well.
They maintain a catchy hook, adaptable vocal, and an infectious instrumentation from start to finish, but never does Dead City Lights ever stray from being straight rock, and that is to be commended. From beginning to end, Erfort presents an earnest case to the listener through a natural charm in his lyrical interpretation that only a true rock star could maintain, all the while displaying some sweet guitar work of his own alongside Grubb. On the flip side of things, Rossi proves to be no chump either — his skills as a percussionist are right on the money. All in all, if you’re a fan of rock — real, unfiltered, in-your-face rock — then “Come Alives” comes as an extremely high recommendation. Amongst the comebacks this year is seeing in bands like Alice in Chains and Joan Jett, Dead City Lights might just about rock right at the top of the heap.
Rating: 5/5
You can buy “Come Alive” on iTunes for just $4.95 right here and right now, or you can listen to it over Spotify for absolutely free. Either way, you will still be benefiting a group of rising stars that most certainly deserve all of the help they can get in achieving their dreams. Also make sure to check out their official Store Envy page, where you can buy a physical copy of “Come Alive” and other merchandise.